Kobe Bryant's What-If Moment Celebrated With "Draft Day" Colorway Of The Nike Kobe 5 Protro

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NBA Finals Game 6: Los Angeles Lakers v Boston Celtics
BOSTON - JUNE 17: Kobe Bryant #24 of the Los Angeles Lakers chews on his jersey in Game Six of the 2008 NBA Finals against the Boston Celtics on June 17, 2008 at TD Banknorth Garden in Boston, Massachusetts. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and/or using this Photograph, user is consenting to the terms and conditions of the Getty Images License Agreement. (Photo by Jim Rogash/Getty Images)
Not many people know that Kobe almost wasn't a Laker.

The Nike Kobe 5 Protro is set to make waves with its upcoming "Draft Day" colorway. This sneaker pays tribute to a pivotal moment in NBA history when Kobe Bryant was nearly selected by the Charlotte Hornets in the 1996 NBA Draft. Although the Hornets picked him, a trade to the Los Angeles Lakers soon followed, altering the course of his career and the league forever. The "Draft Day" design features the Hornets' colors of light blue, purple, and white, symbolizing what could have been. This colorway captures the imagination of fans, evoking a sense of nostalgia for the moment when Kobe's future hung in the balance.

The striking visuals are paired with the signature silhouette of the Kobe 5 Protro, known for its sleek lines and performance-focused features. The Protro technology enhances the original design, providing improved cushioning and support for both on and off the court. This makes the sneaker not only stylish but also functional for athletes. With its deep connection to Kobe's legacy and its eye-catching design, the Nike Kobe 5 Protro "Draft Day" will be a must-have for sneaker enthusiasts and basketball fans alike.

"Draft Day" Nike Kobe 5 Protro

The sneakers feature a light blue rubber sole paired with a light purple midsole. The uppers feature a light purple material, with a blue and darker purple Nike Swoosh placed on the sides. A more vibrant blue is found on the heels and tongue. Finally, the tongues feature the Mamba logo. Overall, this pair tells an awesome story.

Complex reports that the Nike Kobe 5 Protro “Draft Day” will be released sometime in 2025. Also, the retail price of the sneakers will be $190 when they are released. Further, make sure to let us know what you think about these kicks in the comments below. Additionally, stay tuned to HNHH for the most recent updates and news from the sneaker community. We’ll make sure to offer you the newest products from the most notable brands.

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About The Author
Ben Atkinson is a sneaker content writer at HotNewHipHop, where he has been covering the latest sneaker releases and industry news since 2023. With a deep understanding of the sneaker market, Ben regularly reports on exclusive sneaker drops, collaborations, and trends shaping the footwear world. From covering the return of top Nike releases to writing about Travis Scott's famous Air Jordan collaboration, Ben delivers in-depth content for the sneakerhead community. He also brings valuable insights from his former sneaker reselling business, Midwest Soles, which sharpens his expertise on the market.
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